Highest Paying States for CompTIA Security+ in 2026
The CompTIA Security+ certification is a globally recognized standard for IT security professionals. Salaries for these professionals can vary significantly across the United States, influenced by factors such as local demand for security expertise, cost of living, and regional economic conditions. In 2026, the average salary for CompTIA Security+ certified professionals across 51 states stands at $110,483, with a national median of $124,910, reflecting a diverse range of compensation reflecting regional economic landscapes.
Top 5 Highest Paying States
Washington leads as the highest paying state for CompTIA Security+ professionals with an annual salary of $142,940, likely due to its thriving tech industry and high cost of living. California follows with $135,250 annually, where the tech boom in Silicon Valley drives demand for IT security. New Hampshire, at $135,050, benefits from proximity to major tech hubs and a lower supply of qualified professionals. Delaware offers $134,560, possibly influenced by its significant financial sector requiring robust IT security. Maryland's proximity to federal government operations contributes to a high salary of $134,130, reflecting the critical need for security in government operations.
5 Lowest Paying States
Vermont, the lowest paying state, offers $84,860 annually, which aligns with its lower cost of living and smaller tech industry. Maine follows closely at $85,490, where the rural setting and limited tech industry presence reduce demand. West Virginia, Mississippi, and Louisiana, with salaries ranging from $87,420 to $90,090, also reflect lower costs of living and less concentrated tech sectors, which contribute to their lower salary offerings.
What Affects CompTIA Security+ Salary?
Several factors influence the earnings of CompTIA Security+ certified professionals. Experience levels play a crucial role; more seasoned professionals typically command higher salaries. The work setting, whether in corporate, government, or freelance environments, also impacts earnings. Specializations within IT security, such as cybersecurity, network security, and threat analysis, can lead to higher compensation. Additionally, the potential for overtime in response to security emergencies can increase overall earnings.
Salary Comparison Table
Below is a comprehensive table displaying the median annual and hourly wages for CompTIA Security+ certified professionals across all states:
| State | Median Annual Salary | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $142,940 | $68.72 |
| California | $135,250 | $65.02 |
| New Hampshire | $135,050 | $64.93 |
| Delaware | $134,560 | $64.69 |
| Maryland | $134,130 | $64.49 |
| Virginia | $133,520 | $64.19 |
| District of Columbia | $132,470 | $63.69 |
| New Jersey | $131,340 | $63.14 |
| New Mexico | $130,070 | $62.53 |
| New York | $129,790 | $62.40 |
| Connecticut | $127,390 | $61.24 |
| North Carolina | $125,930 | $60.54 |
| Massachusetts | $124,920 | $60.06 |
| Minnesota | $124,380 | $59.80 |
| Colorado | $123,590 | $59.42 |
| Wyoming | $120,360 | $57.87 |
| Iowa | $117,520 | $56.50 |
| Georgia | $117,360 | $56.42 |
| Illinois | $116,800 | $56.15 |
| Texas | $115,040 | $55.31 |
| Pennsylvania | $110,290 | $53.02 |
| Arizona | $108,440 | $52.13 |
| North Dakota | $107,930 | $51.89 |
| Hawaii | $106,980 | $51.43 |
| Ohio | $106,460 | $51.18 |
| Rhode Island | $106,150 | $51.03 |
| Alabama | $105,460 | $50.70 |
| Utah | $105,460 | $50.70 |
| Alaska | $104,480 | $50.23 |
| Florida | $104,110 | $50.05 |
| Michigan | $103,580 | $49.80 |
| Wisconsin | $103,570 | $49.80 |
| South Carolina | $103,410 | $49.72 |
| Nebraska | $103,280 | $49.66 |
| South Dakota | $102,050 | $49.06 |
| Idaho | $101,780 | $48.93 |
| Kansas | $101,430 | $48.76 |
| Oregon | $100,260 | $48.20 |
| Oklahoma | $99,870 | $48.01 |
| Tennessee | $98,470 | $47.34 |
| Missouri | $96,800 | $46.54 |
| Indiana | $95,640 | $45.98 |
| Nevada | $93,950 | $45.17 |
| Kentucky | $92,580 | $44.51 |
| Montana | $92,500 | $44.47 |
| Arkansas | $91,480 | $43.98 |
| Louisiana | $90,090 | $43.31 |
| Mississippi | $87,940 | $42.28 |
| West Virginia | $87,420 | $42.03 |
| Maine | $85,490 | $41.10 |
| Vermont | $84,860 | $40.80 |
Regional Patterns
A clear pattern emerges when comparing regions; the Northeast and West Coast offer higher salaries, likely due to higher costs of living and concentrated tech industries. The South and Midwest tend to have lower salaries, which correlates with lower living costs and less dense tech sectors.
Maximizing Your Earning Potential
To maximize earnings, professionals should consider gaining additional certifications, pursuing specializations in high-demand areas of IT security, and seeking positions in industries with higher security needs such as finance or government. Networking and continuous education can also play significant roles in advancing one's career and salary.
Bottom Line
The landscape for CompTIA Security+ salaries in 2026 shows significant variation across the United States. Professionals looking to maximize their earnings should consider location, industry, and additional qualifications when planning their career paths.
Related Credentials
CredentialGuide Editorial Team
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